Cajun Chicken & Gravy

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cajun Chicken & Gravy is a great blend of bold Cajun spices, tender chicken, and rich gravy that brings the perfect balance of flavors. It's quick to prepare, with the chicken seared to perfection, then smothered in a flavorful gravy made from sautéed vegetables and chicken broth. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, serving well over rice, mashed potatoes, or any side of your choice. The combination of hearty vegetables, seasoned chicken, and savory gravy makes it a meal your whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• ½ yellow onion, sliced

• 2 bell peppers, sliced

• 1 celery stalk, diced

• 4 tablespoons butter

• 2 teaspoons olive oil

• 2 teaspoons onion powder

• 2 teaspoons garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder

• Extra Cajun seasoning, to taste

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Season the Chicken: Drizzle 1 teaspoon olive oil over the chicken breasts and rub to coat. Sprinkle both sides with onion powder, garlic powder, Cajun seasoning, and paprika.

2. Sear the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high and add the rest of the olive oil. Cook the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through (165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken and set aside. Lower the heat.

3. Sauté the Veggies: Toss the butter into the skillet, then add the bell peppers, onion, and celery. Sauté until soft and just starting to brown on the edges.

4. Make the Roux: Sprinkle in the flour and stir it in well, letting it cook for 2–3 minutes while stirring constantly so it doesn’t burn.

5. Build the Gravy: Slowly pour in the chicken broth, add the bouillon powder, and a pinch more Cajun seasoning if you want extra kick. Whisk until smooth and no lumps remain.

6. Bring It Together: Shred the cooked chicken and stir it back into the skillet. Let everything simmer until the gravy thickens up—just how you like it.

7. Serve: Spoon the Cajun chicken and gravy over rice, mashed potatoes, or whatever you love most. Dig in!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 5

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Cajun Chicken: Add extra Cajun seasoning or hot sauce to increase the heat level to your liking.

• Vegetable Mix: Swap or add different vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or tomatoes for a unique twist.

• Creamy Gravy: For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream to the gravy after it thickens.

• Grilled Chicken: Instead of searing the chicken in the skillet, you can grill it for a different flavor profile before adding it to the gravy.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen up the gravy. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless, skinless thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work perfectly in this recipe. They will add a slightly richer flavor and remain tender.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can make the chicken and gravy ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Simply reheat when you're ready to serve.

3. Is this recipe spicy?

The Cajun seasoning gives it a mild to medium level of spice. You can adjust the amount of seasoning to make it more or less spicy according to your preferences.

4. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth if you prefer a vegetarian option.

5. What side dishes go well with Cajun Chicken & Gravy?

This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or even crusty bread to soak up the flavorful gravy.

6. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken and gravy for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container, and reheat thoroughly before serving.

7. Can I add more vegetables to the gravy?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, tomatoes, or spinach for added texture and flavor.

8. What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?

You can substitute butter with olive oil, ghee, or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.

9. How do I make the gravy thicker or thinner?

To make the gravy thicker, let it simmer longer. If it’s too thick, add a bit more broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.

10. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

You can use pre-cooked chicken, though the texture may differ slightly. Just be sure to add it into the gravy at the end, as you don’t need to cook it through.

Conclusion

Cajun Chicken & Gravy is a bold and flavorful dish that's easy to make and packed with savory goodness. Whether you're craving a comforting meal or something a little spicier, this recipe delivers on taste and satisfaction. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, it's the perfect dish for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy this delicious Southern-inspired meal with your favorite sides, and savor every bite!